This page is for user comments and information of a general nature or items applicable to all ETX and DS models. Comments on accessories and feedback items appropriate to other ETX and DS models are posted on other pages. If you have any comments, suggestions, questions or answers to questions posed here, e-mail them to me and I'll post them. Please use an appropriate Subject Line on your message. Thanks.

Subject: The 22" Telescope project
Sent: Friday, February 28, 2003 18:15:36
From: indig@earthlink.net (Randy Smith)
I thought that I would let you know about the progress on the 22". For
now I have postponed changing anything on the 22" since I am using it
for my studies. I am putting the ETX 60's drive on a 6" cassegrain that
I have. I bought a DS80 for $200 and I like the arrangement of the
motors better than the 60 and it came with the upgraded computer
control. I think it is a 492? It has the expanded data base and a 10 key
pad... much nicer than the ETX 60's.
I have put together a web site on the 22" construction and my other
workings. The site is at,
home.earthlink.net/~indig
I hope you like it.
Randy

Subject: ETX 90 et ETX 105
Sent: Friday, February 28, 2003 9:36:07
From: alexandre_letessier@hotmail.com (Alexandre Letessier)
hello, i'm a french astro amateur and i'm looking forward comparaisons
and troubles before costing/ buying a meade etx 90 or a 105. i do not
speak a very well english, and do not either write well. could you
please tell me :
- if the new treatment UHCT on the lens are so good? is it really much
lighter/brihgter/sharp? or is it just marketing?
- which etx is the most appropriate for all observation between 90 and
105?
- is the 105 mount (monture/ fourche) or fork?? made of plastic or steel
or aluminium? i'm looking for astrophotographie (like piguy bag?) ....
- is 105 a good telescope as there are many problems with it? (as read
in your website: motors problems and alignment problems...)
i hope you can understand what i wanted to ask you for.
thank you.
continue your website, it is very interesting.
note: i have much difficulties to find your book in france and in UE in
general. book stores doesn't sell it very well. can you tell me if you
know a UE bookstore who sell it? thanks a lot.

Mike here: The UHTC definitely makes a difference, even in the ETX-90 (I've compared an ETX-90 with and without and the difference was clear). See the Announcements --> Meade page on my ETX Site and read Dr. Clay Sherrod's test report. The fork arms on the ETX-105 are made of plastic but reinforced with aluminum. As to the number of problem reports, keep in mind that people write for help when having some problem but not when all is going well. So the actual percentage of those with problems is likely extremely low. There is a visual difference in objects viewed in the two telescopes but the ETX-105EC is slightly larger. So you need to decide just how much portability you want. Both telescopes can do piggyback astrophotography when mounted in polar mode. Visit your local amazon.com international web site; they should have the ETX book.

Subject: help me...
Sent: Friday, February 28, 2003 3:36:58
From: jyoshi@thn.ne.jp (Jaques)
Help me ...
where place weight to balance the scope with a heavy eyepiece?
thank you...

Mike here: Opposite end of the telescope, but as close as you can get the counterweight to the fork attachment points.

Subject: Mounting an ETX 90 ota to a ETX 105ec Base
Sent: Thursday, February 27, 2003 20:15:18
From: Croten70@cs.com
I am getting ready to mount an ETX 90 ota to an ETX 105ec base. Has
this ever been done before?? I have the ota ready but am waiting on the
base to arrive. I am going to try and document this endouver and take
pics as it progresses. If all goes well I will send them to you just in
case someone else ever does this. Take care
Chris in NC. USA

Mike here: OK, one has to wonder "what happened to the 105 OTA?" As to mounting the ETX-90 OTA, you'll need to make new tube adapters to attach the OTA to the slightly further apart fork arms. Looking forward to seeing how you do this! Thanks.

And:

Yes it will be interesting. According to the meade website on specs,
there is a 2 cm size difference between the 90 ota and the 105 ota.
Maybe not that much of a problem. 105 ota?? I have no idea, I bought
the base from a guy in Cal. so I am hoping he is an honest person since
he told me the base was in mint condition. I will keep you informed as
to the progress. Take care

Subject: SKY& Telescopes FEB Issue on CCD's -
Sent: Thursday, February 27, 2003 2:55:44
From: scott.patten@eds.com (Patten, Scott D)
G'day Mike,
Hope all is well.
I was wonder if anyone has purchased the low cost MEADE CCD camera that
was tested along with another 3 CCD cameras in the Feb issue of S&T. I
could not see it in the meade web site and I must be going blurry as I
could'nt see in on the main advertisement in S&T.
I have had a look for people giving any feedback on the Meade or
Supercircuits models listed. Nothing seems to show up in the search
engine..
Take it easy mate
Scott

Mike here: If you are referring the Meade Electronic Eyepiece, you can see some reports on it on the Helpful Information --> Astrophotography page. You can also search the Site for "electronic eyepiece" and you'll get several hits.

Mike here: Vignetting is the black areas surrounding the field of view when the image does not completely fill the eyepiece (or camera focal plane).

Subject: 2" Aluminum Eyepiece Adapter for Meade ETX scopes.
Sent: Wednesday, February 26, 2003 8:58:21
From: thelandaus@hotmail.com (David and Michal Landau)
http://www.siebertoptics.com/SiebertOptics-eyepieceadapters.html
Is it advisable to use 2" eyepieces on a Meade ETX scopes? Harry
Siebert thinks so. and he makes an eypiece adapter that slides over the
1.25" eyepiece socket which increases the internal size because no 1.25"
barrel is inserted. This means that an incredibly low power, wide angle
lens can be used!!!

Mike here: You may experience some vignetting but as long as focus can be reached and you don't find the vignetting objectable you should be OK. I don't have 2" eyepieces to try out.

Subject: Meade vs Celestron
Sent: Wednesday, February 26, 2003 2:04:22
From: pat.odonnell@french-thornton.co.uk (Pat O Donnell)
More for Carl Green in his question on comparing sizes. Use 25mm to the
inch to compare metric vs imperial measures. It's a good approximation
and the maths are easy. Thus, the ETX 125 is 125/25= 5". We have to do
this kind of mental arithmetic here in the UK all the time.
brgds,
Pat O'Donnell

Subject: Carrying Case
Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2003 19:44:34
From: dmay@vnet.net (Deb May)
I was wondering if you could maybe make your own carrying case to carry
a Meade etx 90 in without damaging it? I saw some hard cases with the
foam you can take out at Lowes but it was to small, would something
bigger like that work?

Subject: Comet C/2002 V1 Fantasy Stories....
Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2003 15:02:44
From: drclay@arksky.org (Clay Sherrod)
Hello and welcome to all...there is a tremendous amount of
misunderstanding and myth surrounding the appearance of comet C/2002 v1
NEAT at this time....to the point that some groups are reverting to "end
of the world" forecasts and nonsense. Many of you have written to me as
to how to respond to casual inquiries about what is being said out
there. Oddly I am getting many phone calls from pastors/priests about
this topic.
Regarding Comet C/2002 V1 NEAT.....
ASO and other groups are getting a tremendous amount of inquiries
regarding this and other comets, so to set the record straight, we have
posted "The Comets: Ghosts of Fiction...Portrayers of
Fact....Soothsayers of Fantasty" on the Arkansas Sky Observatory website
http://www.arksky.org
You can find this at the home page with the link at the top of the
page...if it is not working, try again....we are getting hundreds of
hits at this time on this topic and some folks are having difficulty
getting through.
I felt it was necessary to put this up to reduce the number of inquiries
coming in privately to many of us from the weird, curious and simply
uneducated hoardes out there that have been led to believe that this
comet is any different than the rest.
Enjoy the comet!
Dr. Clay
drclay@arksky.org
Arkansas Sky Observatory
MPC/cbat Obs. H43 / Conway
MPC/cbat Obs. H41 / Petit Jean Mountain
www.arksky.org

Subject: Re: Cannot view Jupiter and Saturn using Meade ETX-125EC
Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2003 12:28:29
From: nitin.bhanap@wcom.com (Nitin Bhanap)
Thank you very much for your note on adjusting the focus. I can see
Saturn and Jupiter very well now after adjusting the focus knob as you
recommended. I am now trying to see these planets with a SP 6 mm, and
have a very hard time focussing, since the planets move out of the
view of the SP 6mm lens much faster than the SP 26 mm. I have
mounted my scope on a tripod in the Alt/Az position and it does not move
with the planets movement. Any ideas to help focus with a SP 6mm would
be really appreciated....
Thanks again !!
Regards
Nitin

Mike here: There are some focus aids mentioned on the Telescope Tech Tips page as well as the Accessory Reviews - Miscellaneous page. But I suspect what you are experiencing is a result of exceeding the theoretical maximum magnification for your telescope. See the FAQ page for how to determine this for any telescope and how to calculate eyepiece magnification (if you're unsure how). To track in Alt/Az mode you need to use an aligned Autostar.

Subject: Bolt arrangement on ETX90-EC base
Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2003 2:25:43
From: iain.drummond@memex.com (Iain Drummond)
I have a non-telescope tripod which I wish to use with my ETX90-EC
(having just missed the free tripod offer!).
The tripod has a clamp assembly, so I would like to make up a metal bar
which I can bolt onto the base of the ETX and clamp into the tripod.
Seems simple enough.
Can you tell me what specification the bolts into the base of the ETX
should be, and if possible, how they are spaced (I'm not confident of my
measuring ability here!).
Great site by the way, just couldn't find what I was looking for. It
seems to be one of those little gems everyone assumes you just know...
Thanks.
Iain Drummond
Programme Manager
Memex Technology Ltd

Mike here: The bolts are standard photographic tripod camera holder type. 1/4"-20 (I believe is the pitch). As to measuring the spacing, why bother with that? Just trace a template onto a thin piece of paper placed over the base. HOWEVER, a word of caution: the tripod you plan to use should be a very sturdy one. Otherwise you will suffer from vibrations, from the drives, from focusing, from footsteps nearby, and from any breezes, ruining the views through the eyepiece.

Subject: lowest magnification
Sent: Monday, February 24, 2003 21:11:08
From: tiffbrown@earthlink.net (Tiffani Brown)
I saw on your latest general update that a Mr. Landau was trying to find
an eyepiece in the 40mm range. I have had a very good experience using a
Celestron 42mm Ultima (29.7x) with my ETX-90. The actual field is
identical to my 32mm Sirius Plossl (the 7 sisters just fit!), but this
eyepiece can bring out some faint detail in dim galaxies and nebula that
can elude the plossl (see "Galaxy hunting with the ETX-90 RA",
observations). The Ultima shows slightly more contrast than the Plossl,
and every star is a pinpoint, right to the edge of the field...my 2c.
Chris Brown

Subject: solar filter for finder
Sent: Monday, February 24, 2003 10:14:47
From: marc.delaney@ntlworld.com (Marc Delaney)
Seeing a mention about covering up the finder when viewing the sun
(through a full aperture solar filter on the main scope, of course!), I
thought you might like to see what I have done: Sorry, a bit lazy to
send a photo!
I have a ScopTronix screw-in solar filter for my ETX-105. I took the
front and rear plastic covers off an old eyepiece and cut largest
possible holes in both flat surfaces, then sandwiched a piece of BADER
PLANETARIUM SOLAR FILTER FILM in between --- just pushed the rear
(smaller) eyepiece cover into the front (larger ) one. It just happens
that this contraption is a snug slide fit onto the ETX finder, so I have
a filter for the finder too!
All the best,
Marc

Subject: ?
Sent: Monday, February 24, 2003 6:40:49
From: thelandaus@hotmail.com (David and Michal Landau)
i saw the following in an advertisment for an eyepiece:
"Not recommended for faster than F/5 optical systems"
is the ETX125 considered faster or slower than f/5?
thanks

Subject: ETX-90RA - Cleaning the Secondary mirror
Sent: Sunday, February 23, 2003 6:36:03
From: ruifragoso@netcabo.pt (Rui Fragoso)
when i look into my ETX-90RA i see three or four particles of dust
laying down the secondary mirror. How can i remove them?
I have a ear syringe that i usually use to remove the dust from EP and
other lenses. Can i use it? How can it be done?
Thx
Best regards
Rui Fragoso

Mike here: Gee, only 3 or 4. Don't bother. Whenever you clean the optics you always run the risk of making things worse. And 3 or 4 small dust particles will not affect the views. The common tendency is to what to clean when cleaning is not necessary.

Subject: Meade vs. Celestron
Sent: Saturday, February 22, 2003 11:16:22
From: scuba123@clarityconnect.com (Carl Green)
I am trying to decide which telescope to buy. I have been looking at
Meade and celestron information. I have some questions about the Meade
ETX series scopes as they are advertised in Astronomy magazine. Why
don't ETX advertisements give the diameter in inches like the Celestron
scopes? I guess I'm trying to ask how many inches are the ETX-90EC,
ETX-105EC and the ETX-125EC? I wonder why they do not give the diameter
in inches for the ETX series Meade scopes vs. the way Meade does for
their LX 90 (e.g. 8") and LX200GPS (e.g. 8" through 12") scopes? I wish
I had a straight away simple way to compare the Meade vs. Celestron's.
Choosing a scope is a weighty decision for me as I will likely live
with my choice for many years. Thank you very much if you can take the
time to reply to my mail.
Best regards,
Carl L. Green
Nichols, NY

Mike here: In the case of the ETX series, the model number is essentially the aperture size (ETX-90 equals 90mm). For more on the specs, see the Meade online Product Catalog at www.meade.com. More specs at: http://www.meade.com.

Subject: meade 124 vs 126 barlow
Sent: Saturday, February 22, 2003 8:12:48
From: tomvitacco@webtv.net
hi.. can anybody tell me the actual difference between the 124 and 126
barlows? is it the lenses or coatings? they both appear physically
identical on the exterior but since there is a price difference there
must be something...
thanks
tom

Mike here: Basically it is better optics. The optical performance of any telescope is only as good as the weakest part (telescope, eyepiece, etc).

And:

that's what i figured.. thanks for the reply...

Subject: re: Columbia pictures
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2003 22:02:40
From: wschart@hot.rr.com (William L. Schart)
From what I understand, the telescope which jwbuckley is talking about
is controlled by an older model Mac (I forget which, but may have even
been a 68k model) probably running some custom software.

Mike here: Yep, it was a Macintosh.

Subject: cleaning my ETX 90 lenses
Sent: Friday, February 21, 2003 15:19:16
From: greglynn@netvision.net.il
I was recently out looking at the night sky after a heavy day of rain
with my new ETX 90. I had found the darkest place in the backyard that
happen to be next to a large tree when along came a big gust of wind and
shook alot of water down onto me. Going back into the house I noticed
water drops on the front lens. My question is how do I clean the lens
off.
Thanks,
Greg

Mike here: See the "Cleaning Tips" article on the Buyer/New User Tips page. Also, the manual has some info.

Subject: Light Pollution Filters
Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2003 21:29:54
From: dhaines@yahoo.com (D Haines)
I've recently purchased an ETX-90RA and a couple of eyepieces and I am
very happy with it (Total investment $210). Jupiter & Saturn look
wonderful.
However I live within very light polluted skies(Milwaukee) and thus have
been unable to see much in terms of deep-sky objects.
Because of this I have looked into getting a light pollution filter.
However must of the articles I see about them have to do with getting
rid of minor sky glow. What about big sky glow (I can almost read
outside at night)? Are they waste with thus much light, or do I have a
chance of seeing something?
Any recommendations - regarding brand 'narrowband', 'broadband',
'oxygen'?

Mike here: See the Accessory Reviews - Filters page for some comments on OIII, Light Pollution, Broadband, and Narrowband filters. What these filters due is reduce certain frequencies of light reaching the eye (or camera) while letting other light through. It has the effect of increasing the contrast, letting you see some objects that would otherwise be lost in the glow. HOWEVER, these filters work best on larger telescopes. They can make a difference on smaller telescopes on some objects though. Just don't expect miracles.

Subject: Upcoming purchase
Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2003 19:09:33
From: sfundock1@stny.rr.com (STEPHEN FUNDOCK)
I am very impressed with your website! I started into Astronomy about 5
years ago with the purchase of Celestron Ultima 10 x 50 binoculars.
After admiring the awesome wonders, I moved to the Model 390 Meade
Refractor two years ago. My next venture will be an ETX scope.
Your website gave me the impetous I needed after looking for the last
several months. I can hardly wait for the adventures that will be surely
mine as I extend my view of the wonderful heavens above!
I again say,thank you and keep on "keeping on".

Subject: Greece
Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2003 15:50:34
From: tsapatan@hotmail.com (Chris Tsapatan)
i am a onwer of a etx 125 spotting scope.im surfing the internet for
info for the etx 125,and your site is the best eventhough im not into
the astroscopes.
i wonder why the etx-90 is popular and the etx 125 which is much greater
/better?
which is the max magnification that i can get with the etx 125
spotting,and what should i need to succeed that?why this is happening?is
the etx -125 too expensive for the most?
my best regards from Rhodes island

Mike here: The ETX-90 is very popular due to its small size (very portable) and its high optical quality. For max magnification info and calculations, see the FAQ page.

Subject: Sun Viewing
Sent: Thursday, February 20, 2003 5:13:15
From: golfing18@msn.com (Michael Knapp)
I read a couple of recent posts concerning Sun viewing and near
disasters and thought I might add this. Be sure to cover the spotting
scope as well. I am not sure if it can be damaged but the eye can and
will be damaged using the spotting scope. I cover mine with a small
piece of cardboard and some tape. Even though it is covered, I still
catch myself trying to look through it just as a habit.
Regards,
Mike Knapp

Mike here: Good point. I made a small cardboard cover for my finderscope as well. I keep it with the solar filter.

Mike here: If you have an ETX (except for refractor models) the central obstruction is the secondary mirror mounted on the corrector lens.

And:

at what magnification will this focos problem begin? 40mm? 50? 60? (i
have a ETX125)
thanks

Mike here: It is not a focus problem; you just start seeing the "masking effect" of the central obstruction. For normal use I wouldn't try less than a 40mm. Besides, I don't recall seeing any eyepieces with a focal length longer than 40mm.

And:

Mike here: Sorry, just haven't heard of them (but never looked for them either). I don't recall seeing any reports of their use with the ETX-125EC. If you get one drop me a report. There is a report of a 50mm eyepiece being used with the ETX-90 on the Accessory Reviews - Eyepieces page.

Subject: Meade Quality Control
Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2003 9:09:48
From: handcrankedfilms@yahoo.com (Joe Taylor)
I am getting ready to take advantage of Meade's New Special Offer
(tripod and Auto Control for no charge with purchase of ETX models.)
However I am a little skeptical of this offer. It sounds a little too
good to be true. It tells me that business may be bad for Meade and I
am worried that their quality control might be down some. I visit your
site often and pay close attention to what folks have to say about their
Meade ETX models. It seems like some have great experiences while
others sometimes get real lemons.
Ins hort, I am hoping you might be able to tell what you know of Meade's
quality control as of late. Would this be a good time to take the
plunge and invest in a new Meade ETX 105?
Thanks for you help. Love your book by the way.
Joe Taylor

Mike here: As I and others have said many times, most people who write have questions or problems that they need help with; when things are going well most people don't write in to say "all was well last night". Yes, some do have real problems that are either the result of shipping problems, a manufacturing problem, or some other cause. Purchasing from a reputable dealer can be a tremendous asset if you do have a problem with a newly purchased telescope (any manufacturer). As to the current deals, there is nothing wrong with taking advantage of it as long as what you get meets your expectations. I purchased the $99 eyepiece set with my LXD55 8"SC and have no complaints.

Subject: Tripods
Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2003 8:49:43
From: dougbarrett@earthlink.net (Douglas Barrett)
I have a ETX125 on order, and it is coming with the 884 tripod. I will
be using the scope in polar mode, as I may piggy back an SLR camera.
Would I be better off buying a 887 tripod with a wedge and selling the
884? Can the wedge be set at 90 degrees for alt/az viewing?
Doug Barrett

Mike here: Some wedges will go to 0 degrees latitude for Alt/Az purposes. I would suggest trying the #884 first.

Subject: minimum magnification
Sent: Wednesday, February 19, 2003 2:17:42
From: thelandaus@hotmail.com (David and Michal Landau)
is there a minimum to magnification?
can i use a 50mm or 60mm, etc., eypiece with the ETX125?
thanks

Mike here: Well, there is no specified minimum but what will likely happen is that either you won't be able to reach a focus or you will not get a good view due to the central obstruction being blurrily visible. With a 40mm and focal reducer on my ETX-90, the central obstruction is slightly visible.

Subject: etx fan from greece
Sent: Tuesday, February 18, 2003 19:44:33
From: tsapatan@hotmail.com (Chris Tsapatan)
hi there!
You ve got a great site. keep up the good work.
i ve got a meade etx-125 spotting scope,do you happen to know if there
are any website with photographs taken with the etx(spotting scope)?
do you happen to know if i can use a 2.4 mm eyepiece with that spotting
scope?
thanks
chris

Mike here: I don't know of any site specific to the spotting scope models. There are some "birding" and other terrestrial photos on my Site. But you'll have to search for them. A 2.4mm eyepiece would exceed the maximum theoretical maximum magnification (check the FAQ page on my ETX Site if you are unsure how to calculate magnifications and determine the max for any telescope).

Subject: Front Lens Dust Cap
Sent: Tuesday, February 18, 2003 8:40:58
From: edworaczyk@systelusa.com (erick)
Just took delivery of an ETX90EC...
Major problem... I can't get the front Dust Cap off of the lens cell. My
hands are practically bleeding! I'm beginning to think that maybe it is
cross-threaded or maybe it has Lock-Tite. While trying to remove, and my
right hand being stronger than the left, the lens cell started to
un-thread. Is this OK? I tightened the lens cell back onto the OTA.
Still can't get the dust cap off. What to do? According to the Manual,
one should be able to remove the lens cell to clean the back side of the
corrector. As long as one does not remove the lens from its metal
housing, everything should be OK? So I thought about removing the lens
cell and then try and remove the dust cap off of it. I don't think I
want to do this. How to hold the lens cell housing and unscrew the dust
cap without damaging the back side of the corrector and the aluminized
surface of the secondary???
Still can't get the dust cap off and my right hand has now got an
impression of the dust cap on it. It is now bleeding here and there, and
I can see that I have left a considerable amount of skin on the dust
cap. Ouch. Ouch. Ouuuccchhh!!!
I thought about getting a couple of Pipe Wrenches and having my way with
it just one more time when I figured it was time to drop you a few
lines... Any suggestions besides returning the scope to Meade????
Surely Meade wouldn't have cross-threaded it,... would they?
Thanks Mike
Sincerely,
Erick Dworaczyk

Mike here: I doubt it is crossthreaded. Whenever mine gets stuck I use one of the rubber jar-lid openers from the kitchen. Works great. If you don't have one, any soft, flexible rubber sheet would do.

Subject: Help please !!
Sent: Tuesday, February 18, 2003 0:49:34
From: vicky.winters@eu.effem.com
Hello Mike, I hope you can help.
I was lucky enough to receive a ETX for Christmas and so far have only
really looked at the moon which is fantastic.
However I did try to look at Jupiter the other night without much
success. When I tried to focus, there was always a black spot in the
centre (looks like an iris !!). I never have this problem when looking
at the moon.
I know I need to have a good read of the instructions, but wondered if
you had any quick tips for me.
Look forward to hearing from you.
VICKY

Mike here: See my reply to the "Cannot view Jupiter and Saturn using Meade ETX-125EC" message further down this page.

Subject: bearings
Sent: Monday, February 17, 2003 14:10:58
From: ksykes@sbcglobal.net (ken sykes)
My name is Ken Sykes, President of American Bearing Works, Inc. For the
last 13 years, I sold bearings and bushings to Meade instruments with my
former company. We can supply all Meade telescopes with quality German,
USA, European (SKF Mostly) and Japanese bearings. If anyone would like
to update their Meade or Celestron Telescopes check out our website @
www.americanbearingworks.com.
Thank you,
Ken Sykes
American Bearing Works, Inc.
800 463 2450

Subject: RE: The best scope is one you'll use so........ [further down the page]
Sent: Monday, February 17, 2003 4:06:39
From: RCosgrove@MFS.com (Cosgrove, Robert)
Yes indeed. I think that's exactly where i'm going. I may end up going
towards the Orion Starmax due to price and non-goto. I want to force
myself to learn the sky! Having the go-to will make me lazy about the
hobby. Plus, I'll get better eyepieces to add on due to the lower
price.
My wife wants me to get the ETX so it's not out of the realm of
possibility. Heck, i could always find things on my own and have the
go-to confirm it for me. As long as i learn "on my own".
Thanks for replying so quickly!

Mike here: Having a GOTO option does not mean you have to use it. Even if you know the sky there is one time that having it pays big dividends and that is under light polluted skies. If you can't "star hop" to what you want to see because your target stars are lost in the bright sky, then using the GOTO will let you locate that object. Just a consideration.

And:

your the first person to have said that! thanks. a definite consideration!

Subject: COMPARISON of the Meade view of astronomy
Sent: Monday, February 17, 2003 2:11:09
From: paulm@rsacl.co.uk (Dr Paul Mason)
I am a beginner in the astronomy world, but have a scientific background
and a keen interest. I'd like to buy a telescope and to be honest, I
think I'll only ever buy one, so want to get one that will stand me in
good stead.
I suppose inevitably, I've felt drawn to an ETX 90/105/125.
I've trawled the Meade website and local/UK dealers like
Telescopehouse.co.uk for pictures taken through these telescopes and
maybe the 8" LX90 and have drawn a blank. To me (relative newcomer) this
seems a little odd. How does one go about deciding on a purchase if one
cannot compare what one gets for ones bucks?
I was wondering, if from your archives or by compiling images sent in
from your 'members/regulars', you could create a mini-gallery of
pictures of the same feature(s) (maybe focused on the same crater /
point - as much as is possible - on our moon, plus say Mars (...?)) on
your web site specifically to compare the images/telescopes / other
telescopes?
I have seen from your site, pictures taken through the various different
ETX and this has proven v helpful (the only pics I've seen really) - but
of course, for comparison purposes (scientifically speaking), it would
be a significant improvement if the pictures were of the same
feature(s).
Are there any other considerations prior to purchase?
Best wishes,
Paul.

Mike here: I've documented that (somewhat) with the ETX-70 (see my comments linked from the top of the "ETX-60AT, ETX-70AT" feedback page) but not with other telescopes. Would make a nice project though. The same person would have to take the photos with the same equipment and the same processing to make the comparisons valid. However, what the camera "sees" and what the eye sees are different and may not be a valid comparison overall. Such things as focal length, aperture size, overall size, features, portability, etc., may be better comparisons than just what the camera can do OR not do with a given telescope.

And:

Thanks for quick reply. The reason I would like to see such pictures is
just as a general guide as its logistically difficult to look through
each of the various available telescopes (at, say the moon) to decide
which one to buy - given shops are in towns where there's light
pollution and in the UK at least, for 9 mths of the year, they're
opening times don't coincide with when its dark...!
Perhaps I should just get the most expensive one in my budget range...?!
...Which would probably be the ETX125. Given Meade's modular approach to
accessories, could you tell me what your 'ideal' starters kit would be
in terms of eyepieces/adapters etc...? I suppose the field / table
tripod and 'goto autostar' are must haves along with that book on ETX's
from the practical astronomy series that some guy(!) wrote...?

And:

I think I was too quick on the Send button! When I think about it, my
budget (1000 UKP) will only stretch to the ETX105 (750 UKP) and then
various accessories (goto autostar: 140 UKP, field tripod 200 UKP,
eyepieces about 50-80 UKP each and so on) - depending on which I should
get in my starter kit(!).
But then I wondered how much more of a telescope will I get by upgrading
to an ETX125...? And so I wondered, well to start with, is the
resolvable detail worth the extra 250...
And thats how I got to where I am now - emailing you.
Best wishes,
Paul.

Mike here: Check out the current deals on ETX telescopes; includes the Autostar and a tripod. Plus for another $99 (US) you get a bunch of eyepieces. That makes a super combination.

Subject: wide field eyepieces
Sent: Sunday, February 16, 2003 23:54:51
From: thelandaus@hotmail.com (David and Michal Landau)
in which viewing situations would i want to use a low power, wide field
eyepiece (like the Meade SWA 40mm)?
and in which viewing situations would i want to use a high power, wide
field eyepiece (like the Orion Expanse 15mm)?
thanks

Mike here: Wide angle eyepieces are useful to when viewing open star clusters or areas of the Milky Way. High power eyepieces are useful when you want to see more details on the Moon, the Sun, or planets. On smaller telescopes, higher powers when used on nebulae and galaxies will not be as useful dim to the faintness of the object.

And:

1. so what is the point of a wide angle, high power eyepiece?
2. do wide angle, low power eypieces exist with the 1.25" barrel?
3. where can i buy a 1.25" to 2" barrel adapter?

Subject: ETX question
Sent: Sunday, February 16, 2003 23:28:40
From: steveandwendie@msn.com (Steve Reed)
Are there any detailed instructions for optically aligning (I know its
not for the faint-hearted) the ETX-105EC posted on your website, or
elsewhere?
Thanks.

Mike here: See the collimation articles on the Telescope Tech Tips page. And no, it is not recommended unless you really have the proper optical equipment and a lot of patience AND are willing to take the risk of making things worse.

Subject: anchoring tripods
Sent: Sunday, February 16, 2003 20:57:59
From: gjyoung@cfl.rr.com (Gil Young)
For a pretty darn sure no-tip and stable tripod setup, has anyone ever
suggested using bungee cord and a spiral/corkscrew tie-out stake that
people use to anchor trees and pets to the ground? Here is a link to a
pic of what I mean:
www.petsupplyhouse.com/items/images/nl080.jpg
All you would have to do is twist the stake into the ground under the
center of where you want to put the tripod, put the tripod over it, and
then set a good quality bungee cord between it and the bottom of the
tripod. To avoid tripod legs sinking into the ground and getting dirty,
one could place three smaller squares of wood under each leg. Adjust
for level and voila.
If it has been suggested, what were the drawbacks from using this setup?
I havent actually tried this, I just thought of it.
Gil

Subject: Columbia Pictures
Sent: Sunday, February 16, 2003 20:53:49
From: jwbukley@comcast.net (Jerry Bukley)
The pictures NASA released of the Columbia were taken by a 3.5 inch
telescope using three flat mirrors to direct the image. Two of the
mirrors were computer controlled to track Columbia. I don't know the
brand of telescope but it wasn't using an Autostar type pointing system.
I don't know if the ETX/Autostar is capable of tracking fast enough to
catch re-entry. When Columbia passed over Starfire it was a little over
210,000 ft up and still at almost orbital velocity. That would require
a track rack of 5 to 7 deg/sec.

Subject: questions
Sent: Sunday, February 16, 2003 8:46:42
From: outfitters@bitterroot.net (Bitterroot Outfitters)
Quick questions for you, I'm looking at buying some eyepieces for my
EXT-90EC and when buying lenses, is 6.4mm low power and the 40mm higher
power? I think this is the case, but in some things it vice versa.
Thank you

Mike here: Reversed. See the FAQ page for information on determining magnification and the maximum theoretical magnification with any telescope.

And:

This is a bit much for my mind, can you recommend sizes of lens I should
have with my Mead ETX-90?

Mike here: See the Buyer/New User Tips page for some eyepiece suggestions. Also, look at the Accessory Reviews - Eyepieces page. But you still need to keep the formula in mind when selecting eyepieces.

Subject: Meade Series 4000 eyepiece set
Sent: Saturday, February 15, 2003 8:43:05
From: electrics@statetheatrenj.org (Electrics)
Hello there! I just read on your site a comment that the Meade Super
Plossl Series 4000 Eyepieces are junk. Is this true? I'm about to order
the whole set for $99, the deal Meade is offering with purchase of an
ETX. I just ordered my ETX 90, and the eyepiece set seems like a great
deal. What's the story in your opinion? Thank you.
Dave Mermelstein

Mike here: Dr. Clay Sherrod noted on the current "ETX-90RA, ETX-90EC" feedback page that the "new 26mm Plossl eyepieces are horrible quality"; an opinion I respect. This is the eyepiece that ships with the ETX-90, -105, -125, LX90, and LXD55 telescopes. Someone else commented that the "Meade series 4000 Super Plossl eyepieces" were "junk". I have the $99 set which I received after I acquired a LXD55 8"SC. I haven't been able to compare the eyepieces to higher quality eyepieces but personally I've been pleased with the results with the 8"SC with all the eyepieces. Is it worth $99? Absolutely. (My opinion.) Could higher quality eyepieces do even better? Absolutely. But then you'd only get one or two eyepieces for much more cost than the set. That's just one of those decisions you have to make. Would I love to have a TeleVue Nagler or Pentax eyepiece. Absolutely! Am I going to spend the money to buy one? Not anytime soon (I just purchased the Apple PowerBook 17" laptop so my budget is depleted, according to the wife).

Subject: Cannot view Jupiter and Saturn using Meade ETX-125EC
Sent: Friday, February 14, 2003 13:22:00
From: nitin.bhanap@wcom.com (Nitin Bhanap)
I just bought a Meade ETX-125EC after reading reviews from your website.
I used the Electronic drive and viewfinder to see the moon with a SP
26mm that came with the scope. I could see spectacular views of the
craters and surface of the moon. However when I try to see Jupiter
and Saturn, I can only see large discs with a bright white ring around
the large discs. I don't see any rings of Saturn or the different
colored cloud bands of Jupiter as some of the photos on your website
show. I cannot see any colors other than black and white images. I have
tried to use the focus knob without any luck. I am using the SP 26 mm
lens that came with the scope to look at Jupiter and Saturn. I can
see a smaller version of Jupiter's colored band of clouds through my
viewfinder attached to my telescope.
Should I be using a larger or smaller SP lens to look at Jupiter and
Saturn
What am I doing wrong ?
Thanks in advance for your help !!!
Regards
Nitin

Mike here: What you describe is a common error; using the focus knob to try to enlarge the image instead of using it to focus the image. Look at the Moon and focus on it. Slew to Jupiter or Saturn. Don't change the focus. You will see a small view of these planets.

Subject: Columbia
Sent: Friday, February 14, 2003 10:17:24
From: jim.bobbert@verizon.com
Based on this news article,
(www.cnn.com/2003/TECH/space/02/12/shuttle.photo.ap/index.html)
it's my guess that the picture was taken with a humble ETX-90. Though
rather grainy, I hope it can help NASA to determine the cause of this
tragedy....
Thanks,
Jim Bobbert
Systems Engineer

And:

Subject: ETX image of Columbia
Sent: Friday, February 14, 2003 12:20:37
From: JQuinn@INVENT.ORG (Jim Quinn)
I've been unable to figure this out from the reports on the web, so I
wonder if you've heard any information about this.
The news reports of the Columbia photographs shot at the Starfire
Optical Range say the equipment used was a commercially available
amateur 3.5 inch telescope controlled by an old Mac. I've seen
references to this in several news stories, but none of the stories
identify the type of telescope used. I have a feeling that an ETX 90
is the most likely candidate for that kind of task, but I can't confirm
that anywhere.
Have you heard whether that final image of the Columbia was taken with
an ETX?
Here's a link to a story about the photo:
www.space.com/missionlaunches/sts107_starfire_030212.html
Jim Quinn

Mike here: Nope, haven't seen any confirmation of the telescope used.

Subject: etx90 with supercharge service
Sent: Friday, February 14, 2003 7:46:41
From: spudman1@alltel.net (Gary Hudson)
I just got my etx90 back from Dr. Clay' supercharge service.
Unbelievably, it also turned out to be a clear night. I got the best
goto performance I'd ever had from my scope. Jupiter stayed centered in
a 20mm eyepiece with a 2x barlow for many minutes. Saturn showed me the
Cassini division for the first time. Everything was tighter in action.
Backlash was MUCH improved. His detailed report also gave me something I
was lacking in my area without a club or starparty to attend; a frame of
reference. I'm confident I'll be doing much more than before with my
etx. Just wanted to share a recommendation for Dr. Clay's service.

Subject: wireless connection
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2003 13:55:23
From: mail@markbb.co.uk (Mark Bosanquet-Bryant)
I just wondered if you or other list members would know the
best/cheapest way to link wirelessly to a 125ETX scope in garden from a
G4 indoors. I would like to connect my 4 port powered hub wirelessly,
located with scope, web cam and keyspan serial adapter. I can get 240V
AC easily to scope from garage.
Or is it easier just to link 2 or 3 active USB extension leads, I'd like
to get rid of the wires though.
Regards, Mark BB

Mike here: Well, Airport won't handle all this so my guess is that you'll need to use USB cables.

Subject: telescope computer control
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2003 12:34:42
From: Cecil.Higginbotham@abbott.com
I have been building telescopes all my life. I know I have spent much
more time building them than looking thru them. I even built an 8" with
dc motor drives with pulse width speed control over twenty years ago. I
am intrigued with the electronic control gadgetry that meade seems to
have out there. If i wanted to control a telescope directly with a
program such as starry night, would I need more than just the ds motors.
Maybe all I need is to be pointed in the right direction. I know I
need a good logic and wiring diagram of a ds scope. What would be the
best source of info?
Thank you,
Joe Higginbotham

Mike here: There are links to various sources of information on my ETX Site (particularly the Autostar Information pages). However, not everything may be publicly available. You would need the motors, gears, and an Autostar (since the Autostar is what is understood by the planetarium software).

Subject: The best scope is one you'll use so........
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2003 11:31:43
From: RCosgrove@MFS.com (Cosgrove, Robert)
I'm not sure if this is an appropriate question for this area...but
here's my question...
i'm a newbie and just bought an LXD55-6" SN.....but it's ALOT of scope
to handle for a new guy such as myself.....i'm wondering...performance
wise....will the ETX 105 or 125(for that matter) be a large drop from
the 6" Schmidt? I realize it's a drop in aperture...but performance and
portability wise, would it be much of a dropoff? I've heard afterall
that the optics are great with the ETX's. Luckily I went through a local
dealer who allows a 30 day no questions asked return policy! Which ETX
would you recommend? "Backyard Astronomers Guide" recommends the 105...
I think this turned into two questions....sorry about that :-)
Thanks a bunch.
Rob C

Mike here: The LXD55 SN models are shorter focal lengths than the ETX-105 and -125 so you'll see a difference in magnification capability but the max mag will be less with the ETXes. Yes, "aperture rules" but there are many other factors as well. And ease of use is certainly one of those. The Alt/Az mount is easier for new users to learn but the GEM mount of the LXD55 is not impossible to learn (they have been used for many years by all levels of users). So what it probably comes down to is whether you want more focal length with slightly less aperture.

Subject: Original 1996 ETX90RA
Sent: Thursday, February 13, 2003 11:01:43
From: edworaczyk@systelusa.com (erick)
I have one of the original 1996 model ETX 90RA's. I've got probably one
of the first produced. I remember lead time was about 6 months...
Anyway, the tube, which is a purple anodize I guess, has got some kind
of "film" all over it. Nothing seems to get the tube clean. When it's
wet, It looks brand new, but after drying, it looks horrible. If you
shine a flashlight onto the purple surface of the tube, you can Really
see the film coating. BAD! Have you heard of this before?? What will
clean it? Can it be cleaned? Is the aluminum tube(anodizing) oxidizing
or what? I've taken extremely good care of this little guy, but it looks
like it has been living in the back yard all this time. Can I expect it
to get even worse over time? This is not good. I wish Meade would have
powder coated these guys blue like the bigger SCT's. Any suggestions? If
not, you might want to research this one for awhile before answering...
By the way, I live in East Texas... Mighty Humid down here... Could that
be part of the problem?
Thanks for you time and your website!!
Sincerely,
Erick Dworaczyk

Mike here: Haven't heard of that. Mine hasn't experienced that and I got it in September 1996.

Subject: Re: ETX 125
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2003 18:30:42
From: drclay@arksky.org (Clay Sherrod)
To: Doug
Hello Doug....I cannot improve what is not there. I do check for
collimation and alignment and clean when necessary; some of the
eyepieces are excellent....I was quoted totally out of context; by and
large, the eyepieces that come with the Meade telescopes and sold by
Meade are NOT the high quality in my personal opinion that they were two
years ago when they were supplied by Japanese makers.
Dr. Clay
Arkansas Sky Observatory
www.arksky.org
MPC/cbat Obs. H43 / Conway
MPC/cbat Obs. H41/ Petit Jean Mt.
----- Original Message -----
> comments: Hi Clay,
> I've ordered a etx 125 from Sight&Sound, and it will be coming your way
> for a supercharge.
> I was reading a note from Dave Simonich to you on the Weasner etx site.
> You said that the Meade eyepieces were not very good. Is there anything you
> can do to improve them. If so I will have the eyepieces sent to you also.
>
> Thanks, Doug

Subject: The Age of the Universe Revealed!
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2003 15:54:15
From: Scott Roberts
Dear Fellow Astronomer,
We live in truly amazing times... dangerous in terms of human struggle
that never seems to end on this almost indescribably tiny speck of a
planet, and wondrous in terms that humans have started to close in on
the true age of the universe. The Wilkinson Microwave Anisotropy Probe
(WMAP) team has made the first detailed full-sky map of the oldest light
in the universe! NASA reports that these scientists have analyzed the
data and discovered that the universe is 13.7 billion years old with an
age determination accuracy of plus or minus 1 percent! This is an
incomparable achievement, and it marks a major milestone for the human
race. This is required reading!
This news and more is on the AstronomyOutreach network, the source that
presents people, news, events, programs, clubs and other resources for
outreach in Astronomy and Space. Go to www.astronomyoutreach.net to
learn more!
Clear skies to all,
ASTRONOMYOUTREACH network
Scott Roberts - Editor

Subject: New to Telescopes, Need help on choice
Sent: Tuesday, February 11, 2003 22:25:41
From: hamlett@idahoinstrument.com (hamlett)
As you can guess from my heading, I need some help on choosing a
telescope. I've heard a lot of good things about the ETX series. Does
anyone have any insights on a model that would be great for a fairly new
stargazer. I have an old tasco 4" reflector, but needless to say, its
starting to fall apart and figure I better start shopping. Any
information would be great. I also have the ability to go look at the
Scopes in a shop. We have a planetarium in my city thats a dealer.
Thanks alot.

Mike here: Your telescope choice depends upon HOW you want to use it and WHAT your expectations of views are. Of course, budget it also a factor. So, first decide how you will use it: general, planetary, deep sky, wide field, do you need a really portable telescope, etc. The ETX line has a range of telescopes that might meet your need and come close to your expectations. Keep in mind that the ETX-70AT is a fine wide-field instrument whereas the ETX-125EC provides more details on planets. You might also look at the DS line as well as the LXD55 series. Depending upon your budget and purpose, the LX90 8" and the LX200 series may be better for you. And of course, there are the telescopes from other reputation manufacturers (Celestron and Orion). Decisions, decisions, decisions. You can find out a lot of info from the ETX Site; see the Feedback pages, the User Observations page, the Buyer/New User Tips page, and the various Astrophotography pages. If you are considering the LXD55 series, you might want to also look at my new LXD55 Site (www.weasner.com/lxd). Also, your dealer can answer questions and you might consider joining a local astronomy club or group.

Subject: #884 Tripod
Sent: Tuesday, February 11, 2003 20:26:09
From: MJFrancis@comcast.net (mjfrancis)
Just curious if you had heard of anyone making any modifications to the
#884 to make it more stable in polar orientation for the 125. I have
seen a modification of the #883 tripod using lead shot in the legs to
make it less likely to tip over but haven't seen where anyone has tried
this with the #884. Trying to remember from chemistry class if the lead
would react with the steel in the legs of the tripod forming some type
of corrosion. Also if this modification was made would the plastic leg
locks still work to hold everything up in the extended configuration? I
suppose I could bite the bullet and get the #887 but don't quite like
it's non-adjustable legs.
Thanks Again, Great Site
Mike Francis

Mike here: There is a recent mod on Telescope Tech Tips page but it isn't what you mean. You could just hang some weight from the center of the tripod; that will add stability and reduce vibrations.

Subject: Re: ETX 125 Supercharge
Sent: Tuesday, February 11, 2003 14:35:50
From: j.w.bannen@att.net
I have a ETX-125 and have only used it in Alt/Az mode. Since my
supercharge I have bought a 887 tripod with wedge. I am a little
confused on setting it up in Polar mode. The meade directions show the
OTC pointing in a different diection?? Do you have any photo's or
diagrams of the procedure? I want to start astrophography with it and
have practiced with the terrestrial photo's. I could practice setting up
in Polar mode during the day to get used to it, right. Any feedback
would be very useful.
Sincerely,
John Bannen

Mike here: In the Feedback for February 2001 (in the Feedback Archives) there is a photo from Eduardo Memub. The photo on the right shows the proper Polar Home Position. The proper orientation is to tilt the wedge to match your latitude on the scale. The fork arms will point at Polaris (in the Northern Hemisphere). Polar Home is with the OTA parallel to the fork arms (pointed at Polaris, or rather True North) and the fork arms rotated so that the eyepiece is on top.

And:

Thank You!!!! I think I was making more out of it than it really is!
Wow, what a help that is. Thank you again! Meade directions only show
that with the table top tripod and when you read the #883/887 directions
you get really confused!!!

Subject: focal reducer for ETX
Sent: Tuesday, February 11, 2003 10:47:13
From: williansouza@yahoo.com (Willian)
I knew focal reductos/correctors for SCTs ( make a f/10 to f6,3).
Is there a similar adaptor for ETX ?
ETX has a rich field adaptor like SCTs?
Thanks,
Willian
=====
Willian Souza
williansouza@yahoo.com
http://www.geocities.com/williansouza

Subject: Foam Supplier
Sent: Monday, February 10, 2003 18:35:29
From: SHelsley@sjm.com (Helsley, Shawn)
Hello. Do you have a supplier that sells a 2x2 sheets of the 'foam
"cubes"? I have an existing case, and I need to replace the foam.
Thank you,
Shawn T. Helsley

Mike here: Sorry, I don't recall one. I suggest searching the web.

Subject: new ETX
Sent: Monday, February 10, 2003 0:54:57
From: s.wadman@philips.com
I just bought myself a shining new ETX105 after having stepped over my
hesitations due to the declination axis problems mentioned all over your
great and elaborate website. And indeed: the optics is very good but the
declination lock does not lock at all:
it slips under the scope's own weight. I have to think what to do now.
As a Netherlands resident, it is a great and expensive hassle sending
the product back and wait forever unitil I get it back. On the other
hand: I can do a few things myself but I do not want to void my warranty
right away.
Any advice now yet?
Best regards,
Ing. Sipke Wadman
Philips Center for Industrial Technology
P.O. box 218 5600MD Eindhoven Building SAQ 1344
The Netherlands
Tel. +31 40 27 33212 Fax +31 40 27 37012
Signature: ------------------------------------------------------------------
If you try to enforce things Nature doesn't allow,
technical, human, organisational or in business . . . . .
In the end Nature always wins.

Mike here: Well, as your sig notes, Nature (and I guess, Murphy) always wins... Sorry to hear about the problem. I would recommend contacting the dealer where you purchased it. They should exchange it. I would not recommend trying to work on (other than ensuring the lock is actually being tightened enough).

And:

Thanx for your immediate reply. I will follow your website and by the
time I get acquinted with the instrument I'll try to make a
contribution.
Regards, Sipke

Subject: Thanks!
Sent: Sunday, February 9, 2003 8:43:22
From: John01F@aol.com
i just wanted to thank you for this great site. I started this hobby a
little over a year ago with the 4504 and one ep now ive got the lxd55 8"
uhtc and most of my eps, finderscope and barlow from harry siebert if
not for your site and all the great links I would have been lost.
Thank you and best wishes
Carl Marchione
Boston Ma

Subject: etx90ec help!
Sent: Sunday, February 9, 2003 3:53:09
From: ARottal@gmx.de (Arno Rottal)
Hi, i'm working on my specialtopic which is the ETX90Ec fr my final
exams. I've searched for an internetsite which is able to give me some
information about the technical details of it. I mean the descriptions
of the inner live of the etx90ec not just normal details like the
specifications for the etx:) Which mirrors or lenses are inside the
etx? what do they do with the incoming light and so on. i hope that your
are able to help me! your help is very important for me! thanks in
advance!
sincerely Arno Rottal
Austria / Vienna

Mike here: Meade has product information on their web site. You can get directly to the ETX page here:
http://www.meade.com/catalog/etx/etx_mak.html.
Note that the diagram doesn't show the flip mirror which directs the light to through the eyepiece hole.

Subject: re: Dark Sky Glasses [On the Just for Fun page]
Sent: Thursday, February 6, 2003 17:38:52
From: michael@bigtopmusicinc.com (Michael)
I got a real chuckle out of the darkskyglasses website. As the
testimonial said, "astronomers have a lot of time on there hands when
it's cloudy."
We really do all need to laugh now and again... especially in hard
times.
;-)

Subject: Re: Selfmade newton for only 20 dollar [On the Just for Fun page]
Sent: Wednesday, February 5, 2003 22:57:33
From: stantstk@pacbell.net (Stan Glaser)
Ouch!! I think I may need a refresher course in the Scandinavian
languages ;-)
It all LOOKS interesting -- reading it is another matter (LOL!!)
Stan Glaser

Subject: Heres a unique astronomy vacation
Sent: Tuesday, February 4, 2003 21:40:13
From: gjyoung@cfl.rr.com
I found this surfing for astronomy & CCD sites and wanted to share it
with the Weasner community.
This looks like the perfect mix for a vacation, the romance of a B&B
nestled in the mountains and an observatory to boot. You can rent
scopes there so you dont have to lug one on vacation with you (unless
you want to that is :)), or, get a course & spend some time on the big
scope, or both! He's also getting a location in Arizona soon it seems.
http://www.jacknewton.com/
Also, if you look at his pics, he uses an ETX scope on the very top of
his observatory setup!
http://www.jacknewton.com/construction_3.htm
P.S. Thanks for a great site!
Gil Young

Subject: ETX finderscope mount repair question
Sent: Sunday, February 2, 2003 10:48:31
From: akr@value.net (Art Kapoor/Judy Haxo)
Through a series of unfortunate events I managed to snap a piece out of
the plastic socket on my ETX90EC that holds the metal tab on the front
of the finderscope mount. The piece is very small. I tried using crazy
glue to hold it but evidently the plastic is of a type that crazy glue
does not hold well. Does anyone out there know what type of plastic is
used on the ETX around the mount and have a recommendation for a glue to
use? I think it is time for me to build that new finderscope mount I
have been thinking about. Thanks for your help
Best Regards to all,
Art

And:

From: drclay@arksky.org (Clay Sherrod)
This is a very common problem and the tab is hard plastic, not metal.
Unless you get a replacement mount from Meade (you have to either get it
as a repair replacement item or with a new finderscope) there is no
other option than to Superglue (actually I use Loctite Red) the entire
holder back into place on the rear cell and secure firmly without
overtightening with the small Allen screw on the back of it. That is a
permanent solution and frankly there is no practical reason why the
mount should NOT be glue to the rear cell anyway.
Clay
----------------------------------------
Dr. P. Clay Sherrod
drclay@arksky.org
Arkansas Sky Observatory
MPC/cbat Obs. H43 / Conway
MPC/cbat Obs. H41 / Petit Jean Mountain
www.arksky.org

Subject: Selfmade newton for only 20 dollar
Sent: Saturday, February 1, 2003 5:15:23
From: geheniau@xs4all.nl
I found a site where you can make your own telescoop from paper. Only 20
dollar. Also other things you can buy there (sextant, microscope etc) all
from paper!.
Very nice.
Job Geheniau
the Netherlands
www.ipacity.nl/Prod%20Newton%20Telescoop.htm
http://www.ipacity.nl/